Pikes Peak State Park
00 review15316 Great River Road, McGregor, Iowa, 52157, United States
Pikes Peak State Park
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Based on user reviews, sites with electricity approximate $32.
About this campground
Perched majestically 1,130 feet above the mighty Mississippi River, Pikes Peak State Park offers adventurers a gateway to some of Iowa's most spectacular vistas. This remarkable destination seamlessly blends natural wonder with ancient history, where effigy mounds whisper stories of civilizations past and hiking trails wind through pristine landscapes. Modern amenities meet rustic charm in the well-appointed campground, featuring both electric and non-electric sites complemented by clean shower facilities and convenient dump stations, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the authentic outdoor experience.
Camping options include both electric and non-electric sites, with facilities catering to RVs and tents. Group camping and primitive sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this park bearing the name of the intrepid Lieutenant Zebulon Pike. The landscape holds sacred ground where the Woodland Culture carefully crafted effigy mounds between 800 and 1200 A.D., creating lasting monuments that have endured for nearly a millennium. These ancient burial sites stand as silent testaments to the sophisticated societies that once called this blufftop home, inviting modern visitors to contemplate the deep human connection to this extraordinary place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Autumn paints the blufftops in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating a photographer's paradise as maple and oak trees showcase nature's grand finale. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with crystalline snow dusting the ancient mounds and frost etching delicate patterns on bare branches. When summer arrives, gentle breezes sweep across the bluffs, offering perfect conditions for exploration while the canopy provides welcome shade along winding trails.
ElevationFrom your campsite at 1,130 feet above sea level, the world spreads out before you in panoramic splendor. This commanding elevation atop the ancient bluff creates a natural theater where sunrise and sunset performances paint the sky in ever-changing hues, while the Mississippi River winds its timeless course far below.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape where nature has crafted its masterpiece over millennia. Ancient oak-hickory forests stand sentinel alongside maple-basswood groves, their canopies sheltering wooden boardwalks that guide visitors through hidden glens. The enchanting Bridal Veil Falls cascades delicately down moss-covered rocks, while the confluence of two great rivers creates an ever-changing tapestry below. Throughout this natural cathedral, the mysterious effigy mounds emerge from the forest floor, adding an element of sacred mystery to an already magical setting.
Geological RegionRising dramatically 500 feet above the historic confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, this geological marvel showcases nature's architectural prowess. The towering bluff stands as a testament to millions of years of geological forces, now clothed in magnificent old-growth forests where massive oaks and hickories mingle with graceful maples and basswoods. The varied terrain creates a wonderland of ridges and secret glens, each turn revealing new perspectives of this ancient landscape where natural history and human heritage intertwine across the centuries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park provides accessible sidewalks, picnic shelters, shower buildings, and several overlook structures. The effigy bear mound and trail viewing platforms are also accessible to mobility-impaired visitors.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention sites with large pitches suitable for RVs, but some sites are noted as being tight and difficult to navigate.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are mixed. Reviews indicate that some sites are clustered closely together, while others provide better separation. One reviewer noted tight layouts and narrow roads.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
There is no specific information about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites described as tight with gravel pads, some of which are uneven. Geared more towards RVs than tents.
Open and Closed SeasonMemorial Day Weekend through the third Sunday in October
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations available for picnic areas and sites. Specific platforms not mentioned.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Pikes Peak State Park is rich in outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. There is also a scenic overlook offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and nearby Wisconsin. Visitors can explore historic effigy mounds and enjoy picnicking in designated shelters.
Hiking
The park features 11.5 miles of hiking trails, most of which are shaded and traverse old-growth forests. Trails vary in difficulty, with options ranging from short walks to longer, remote hikes like the 8-mile round trip to Point Ann. Highlights include Bridal Veil Falls and Bear Mound.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available within 10 miles of the park, with boat launch ramps and docks mentioned in the vicinity.Biking
A portion of the trails is open to mountain bikes. User reviews highlight the trails' versatility, with one stating, 'Trails are well marked and connect so you can make a hike as long as you want.'Boating
Boating opportunities exist within 10 miles of the park, with canoe rentals, boat docks, and a marina available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with sightings of pileated woodpeckers, red foxes, and hummingbirds reported. One reviewer noted, 'Seeing the hummingbirds here is a special treat along with all the spectacular river views we get to see.'Winter Activities
Winter activities include exploring the park's trails and viewing the waterfall, which is described as 'amazing' during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available within 10 miles, supported by canoe rentals and boat docks.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsSteep trails, slippery stairs at Bridal Veil Falls, and uneven campsite pads are mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsCampgrounds have undergone renovations recently. Reports indicate closures during 2022; status for 2023 is noted as mostly completed.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles: hospital, police, ranger station. Specific names are not mentioned in the data.
Good to know
Peak season datesFall season, particularly around October 9-15 for peak fall colors.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but there is no mention of recycling facilities or pickup schedules.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers. Bridal Veil Falls is a highlight within walking distance.
Common complaintsSlippery stairs, unlevel campsite pads, and tight roads for backing in RVs.
HostCampground host described as super helpful in user reviews. No specific contact details provided.
Campground Map
15316 Great River Road, McGregor, Iowa, 52157, United States
Driving directionsAt the end of McGregor's Main Street follow County Road X-56 south, wind upward about 3 miles and arrive at Pikes Peak State Park. The physical address for the park entrance and campground is 32264 Pikes Peak Road.
The park is easily accessible via paved roads. Follow County Road X-56 south from McGregor, with a winding elevation gain over 3 miles to Pikes Peak State Park. No mention of seasonal closures.Nearby places
McGregor (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Marquette (2-3 miles, less than 10 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in nearby towns such as McGregor and Marquette (2-3 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Pikes Peak State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight Pikes Peak State Park as a beautiful location with excellent amenities, scenic views, and well-maintained trails. Common sentiments include praise for cleanliness, accessibility, and the breathtaking Mississippi River overlook.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the cleanliness of the park facilities, well-maintained trails, scenic river views, and accessibility for families. One user described it as 'probably...
Show more
Common Concerns
Concerns include uneven campsites, tight layouts, and difficulties with backing RVs. One reviewer remarked, 'Poor layout means one way or the other, you’ll be going the wrong way.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug spray and water for longer hikes, making reservations due to the campground's popularity, and visiting during fall colors in October for a stunning experience.
Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest in October due to fall colors. Winter reviews highlight icy stairs and picturesque waterfalls. Summer reviews emphasize the value of free parking and entry, along with accessible...
Show more
Camper Quotes
'Great park, probably one of the best state parks in Iowa.' — Sam Fenstermacher
'Beautiful views of the mighty Mississippi River.' — Andy Schmidt
'We walked to the Bridal Veil Falls...only moderately...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not identified, but multiple reviews mention tight layouts and clustered sites, making them less suitable for tents and difficult for RVs.
Accessibility Features
Visitors praise the park's accessible amenities, including sidewalks, shelters, and restroom facilities. One review highlighted, 'The entire bathroom is accessible.'
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is described as pet-friendly by users, with comments like, 'Also suitable for dogs.'
Last updated August 10, 2025